Advice for Cycling During Summer

Advice for Cycling During Summer

It doesn’t matter if it’s hot or cold, riding a bike is always a pleasure and we’re not going to give it up just because it’s a few degrees hotter! However, that determination shouldn’t stop us from trying to offset the rise in temperature with some tips for cycling in summer, ones that will make cycling in the following months a much more enjoyable experience. These tips have certainly helped me in summers past, and they might help you too!

Hydration

If you’re thirsty it’s already too late. Stay hydrated throughout the day by keeping up with your fluid intake. Being hydrated will make pedalling in heat much easier and lowering the risk of dehydration, which can be dangerous. Be careful not to drink too much water as you might need a bathroom break in the middle of traffic!

Clothes

This depends on your body type. For some, wearing less, so short sleeves and shorts, is preferred as it lets more air circulate through the body, thereby cooling it. For others, wearing long sleeves protects our skin from the sun. It’s up to you, personally I prefer wearing less in summer and more in winter. It’s also advisable to bring a spare T-shirt if you’re going somewhere. It won’t stop you sweating but it will make you look dry to others.

Timing

Try to improve your timing so that you’re going quickly through green lights and slowly approaching red ones. That way, you can decrease the amount of time your journey takes and optimise the energy you expend. It also helps if you leave the house in enough time to reach your destination at your own pace, without rushing desperately so you won’t be late.

The summer road

Often it’s tempers and temperatures that rise during summer. Drivers stuck in hot cars are in a worse mood, unsurprisingly as they’re practically boiling alive. With this said, perhaps it’s best to avoid the busiest roads during summer, and take a longer, but slightly less car-filled route. Finding a route with some shade will also make your daily cycle more enjoyable.

Check your bike

The last thing you want is a breakdown in the middle of the road. Make sure your tyres are properly inflated and able to resist possible punctures. You can save yourself a lot of stress if you regularly check your bike or take it to a mechanic for a tune up.